By Associated Press
Salamanca, NY – The Seneca Indian Nation's second casino has opened for business in a scene that included traditional American Indian dancers, music and fireworks.
The Senecas already operate the profitable Niagara Falls casino, which opened New Year's Eve 2002.
The $71 million Seneca Allegany Casino, which made its debut Saturday night, is the first full-fledged casino in the Southern Tier, and is expected to attract gamblers from western New York and Pennsylvania.
The new gambling hall features 1,700 slot machines and 22 gambling tables including blackjack, craps and roulette. There's also a bingo hall, buffet room, diner and snack bar.
On opening night, Victor Morley, 38, of Dayton, won $214,000 after shoving 75 cents into a slot machine called Wheel of Fortune. He said the experience was "numbifying" and plans to donate some of his winnings to charity.
Seneca leaders hailed the casino's opening as a major step toward the revival of the local economy and the nation's quest for financial independence.
"I'd like all Senecas to pat themselves on the back," said Seneca President Rickey L. Armstrong. "This whole thing is for you."
Hundreds of gamblers waited for hours outside the casino before the doors opened. Some patrons were surprised by the outside appearance of the boxy metal building that houses the casino and noted that it was smaller than its sister casino in Niagara Falls. Seneca officials pointed out that the temporary facility will eventually be replaced by a bigger, more fashionable resort.
"I think this casino will do real well with people from Pennsylvania and Ohio," said David Clement, 46, a truck driver from Erie, Pa. "We have no casinos in our state. This is a lot closer than Niagara Falls."
Meanwhile, the Senecas have reached tentative agreements to open a third casino near Buffalo Niagara International Airport in Cheektowaga.
The Senecas hope that casino will attract primarily Buffalo-area gamblers rather than tourists, which may put the Senecas at odds with Mayor Anthony Masiello, the Buffalo News reported Sunday. According to documents obtained by the newspaper, the Seneca Erie Casino "will cater primarily to the local market in Buffalo and its suburbs," the bond offering said.